Atlanta, GA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Notice period
- 30 calendar days to abate
- Repeat violation
- New offense every 30 days
- Enforcement
- Atlanta Municipal Court citation
- Emergency trim
- No notice if only overhang
- Cost recovery
- City can bill owner
Summary
Atlanta requires property owners to trim or remove trees that block safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail, or face a municipal court citation after 30 days' notice.
Abatement may be ordered where a private property tree interferes with safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail; or is deemed a nuisance as defined in this section.(b)Notice. When the city arborist determines that a private tree requires abatement, he or she shall give written notice to the owner of the property. The notice shall contain:(1)A clear and concise statement that in the city's opinion the tree or part of a tree interferes with safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail and/or constitutes a nuisance;(2)The specific actions that the owner must take to mitigate the nuisance; and(3)A statement that if the work is not done by the property owner within 30 calendar days from the date of the notice, the city may issue a citation to appear in municipal court.
Full Breakdown
When a private tree blocks safety or free passage along a public street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail, the city arborist sends written notice describing the problem and the required action. Owners have 30 calendar days to abate it; each additional 30-day period without action is a separate offense enforced through Atlanta Municipal Court. If only the portion overhanging the right-of-way needs removal, the city can trim it without notifying the owner first.
Violations & Fines
Missing the 30-day deadline triggers a citation to Atlanta Municipal Court, and each further 30-day period without abatement is a separate offense. The city can also abate the hazard itself and bill the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides if my tree is a nuisance in Atlanta?
What happens if I ignore the 30-day notice?
Can the city trim my tree without asking me?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
Compare Atlanta to another location·View the Georgia landscaping rules overview
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Tree Trimming in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle tree trimming.